Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Pc 55Obstructions
Pāli / Sanskrit:Antarāyika
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SUTTA ON OBSTRUCTIONS (ANTARĀYIKA)
Background
The sutta on obstructions (Antarāyika) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Pāṭimokkha of the bhikkhus. This is not a sutta directly taught by the Buddha as a discourse, but a rule of discipline organized as a listing of prohibited actions and situations that obstruct the diligence of practice in the Sangha.
In its historical context, as Buddhism developed, Sanghas needed clear rules to maintain discipline and remain focused on the goal of liberation. The concept of “obstruction” (antarāyika) refers to factors, actions, or situations that interrupt or hinder the course of practice for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. These obstructions are carefully considered because they affect the mind, concentration, and diligence of the practitioner.
Main Content
The Antarāyika Sutta focuses on classifying actions and situations considered obstructions. According to the Theravāda tradition, these obstructions include actions that violate basic principles of discipline or situations that create disturbance in the mind.
Specifically, the sutta lists actions that a bhikkhu should not perform if he wishes to maintain purity in conduct and mind. These may include violations such as improper trade, useless talk or spreading agitating news, or any action that diverts the mind from concentration. These obstructions are not necessarily grave offenses leading to exclusion from the Sangha, but they are weaknesses that must be recognized and corrected.
The sutta also emphasizes that clearly understanding these obstructions helps bhikkhus be self-aware in practice, knowing what should be avoided in order to maintain diligence and concentration. This is part of internal self-discipline, not merely obedience to rules imposed from outside.
Practical Meaning
The sutta on obstructions has profound meaning for modern practitioners of the Buddhadharma.
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